Find Your Fit: How to Buy the Right Canned Pinto Beans
Considering the Canned Pinto Bean Options
Canned pinto beans are a pantry staple that can be used in a variety of dishes, from classic refried beans to hearty soups and stews. With so many options available at the grocery store, it can be overwhelming to decide which canned pinto beans are the best choice. Here are some factors to consider when choosing canned pinto beans.
Check the Ingredients List
When selecting canned pinto beans, it's important to read the ingredients list on the label. Ideally, the only ingredients should be pinto beans, water, and maybe a little bit of salt. Avoid cans that contain additional additives and preservatives, as these can add unnecessary calories and sodium to your dish.
Consider the Brand
Different brands of canned pinto beans can vary in quality and taste. It's a good idea to try a few different brands to see which one you like best. Look for brands that are known for producing high-quality beans, and read online reviews to see what others have to say about the taste and texture of the beans.
Think About the Type of Recipe You're Making
The type of recipe you're making will also influence which canned pinto beans you choose. If you're making refried beans, you'll want to look for cans of pinto beans that are labeled "mashed" or "refried." These beans are already partially mashed, which will save you time and effort when preparing your dish.
If you're making a soup or stew, on the other hand, you'll want to look for whole or partially mashed beans. Whole beans will hold their shape better and add more texture to your dish, while partially mashed beans will break down slightly and add thickness to the broth.
Don't Forget to Rinse the Beans
Regardless of which brand or type of canned pinto beans you choose, it's important to rinse them thoroughly before using them in your recipe. Canned beans are often high in sodium, and rinsing them will help to remove some of the excess salt. To rinse the beans, simply pour them into a colander and rinse them with cold water.
Conclusion
With so many options available, choosing the right canned pinto beans for your recipe can seem daunting. By considering the ingredients list, the brand, the type of recipe you're making, and rinsing the beans before use, you can select the perfect canned pinto beans for your dish.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Do you drain canned pinto beans before cooking?
It depends. While it's fine to add the bean liquid to many recipes, if you want to reduce sodium, it's best to drain and rinse canned pinto beans.
2. Are canned pinto beans good?
Canned pinto beans are a good source of protein, with 1 cup providing 15.4 grams. Plant-based diets that include beans have been shown to reduce the risk of heart disease, type 2 diabetes, and metabolic syndrome while improving brain function.
3. Are canned pinto beans fully cooked?
Yes, canned pinto beans are already cooked, making them a convenient option. However, it's recommended to rinse them before use to reduce sodium or choose no-salt-added varieties.
4. What happens if you don't rinse canned beans?
If you don't rinse canned pinto beans, the liquid in the can, which contains starch and salt, may affect the texture or flavor of the finished dish.
5. Should you throw the water in canned beans?
No, the liquid in canned beans, known as bean broth, can be used in various ways like thickening soups or helping dips come together. It's recommended to use the bean broth instead of throwing it away.
6. Is it healthier to rinse canned beans?
Rinsing canned beans will help reduce the sodium content by a third. If you're watching your sodium intake, it's beneficial to drain and rinse canned beans or choose low-sodium or no-salt-added varieties.
7. Can you eat beans right out of the can?
While it's technically possible to eat pinto beans straight out of the can, even low-sodium varieties can be quite salty. It's recommended to drain and rinse them before eating or cooking, unless a recipe states otherwise.
8. Are pinto beans better dry or canned?
Using dried pinto beans allows you to control the sodium content. While canned beans are convenient, they can be high in sodium, which may be a concern for those with high blood pressure or those who want to limit their sodium intake.
Editor's Notes
During our canned pinto bean research, we found 25 canned pinto bean products and shortlisted 10 quality products. We collected and analyzed 32,654 customer reviews through our big data system to write the canned pinto beans list. We found that most customers choose canned pinto beans with an average price of $14.63.
The canned pinto beans are available for purchase. We have researched hundreds of brands and picked the top brands of canned pinto beans, including Goya, Eden, Bush's Best, Sun Vista, LA PREFERIDA. The seller of top 1 product has received honest feedback from 385 consumers with an average rating of 4.7.
Ashley Abels is a former restaurant executive and has worked in the restaurant industry for 15 years. She is also a gourmet who loves tasting different cuisines and trying out all kinds of cooking methods. The food she writes about will make you want to try it!
